Type 1 Diabetes In Children & Teens
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), 8.3% of the US population has diabetes. Type 1 Diabetes is primarily diagnosed in children and teens but can also be diagnosed later in life. Woodburn Pediatric believes it is important for parents with kids or teens who have Type 1 Diabetes to have a comprehensive understanding of it, what causes it, how it affects health, and how excellent Type 1 Diabetes management can be achieved.
What is Type 1 Diabetes
When patients are diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, it means their body is unable to produce insulin. Their immune system attacks cells in the pancreas that produce insulin, causing sugar to build up in the bloodstream. Type 1 Diabetes is often an inherited genetic disease, although doctors are still unsure of the root cause. With modern medicine and proper treatment, patients diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes can lead happy, healthy lives.
Coping Tips
Parents of kids with Type 1 Diabetes can help in many ways. First and foremost, parents need to monitor children’s blood glucose levels throughout each day and administer medication as needed for effective diabetes management. Parents can emphasize the importance of this daily task to older children and teens that monitor it themselves. Tracking blood glucose levels is imperative for properly treating Type 1 Diabetes. Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems easily worn by patients with Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes make tracking blood glucose levels much easier today than even a few years ago.
A healthy lifestyle is essential for patients with all types of diabetes. Eating a well-balanced diet and getting plenty of daily exercise are needed. Regular physical activity is a key factor in Type 1 Diabetes management, as exercise can help regulate blood sugar levels and promote overall health.
Guidance and Support with Woodburn Pediatric
Living with Type 1 Diabetes can be challenging, but when armed with a support system of friends and family, routine medical exams, and a healthy lifestyle, children can thrive! If you would like advice on how to improve your child’s current diet or increase their interest in exercise, please feel free to contact us at Woodburn Pediatric by phone at (503) 981-5348 or stop by in person.